WILDLIFE-FRIENDLY FENCING

 

As many as 30,000 Mule Deer are killed annually due to becoming entangled in fences.  Metal fencing or woven chain-link fencing can be deadly for Mule Deer fawns.  Fawns following their mothers cannot jump over fencing and become entangled, injured or fatally wounded.  

 

Fence Recommendations for Willowbrook Wildlife:

 

• The best fence for wildlife is no fence at all! Consider using natural elements like rocks, shrubbery, hedges, and trees to create a natural barrier.

 

• If you do not need wire fencing to keep your dog in, please consider removing it.

 

• Woven wire fences should be avoided because they completely block mule deer fawn movement and limit wildlife access to important habitats and travel corridors.

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• Avoid using fencing (either post-and-rail, or mesh) that separates adults from fawns.  If an adult can jump over it, make sure a fawn can crawl under it.  Make certain the height of the bottom rail allows fawns to pass under it (18 inches minimum from ground) and pass through it (16 inches between rails).  

 

• Instead of fencing the deer OUT of your garden, fence your garden IN.  Completely surround your garden, including the top, so deer cannot jump in.  Fencing around individual trees is ok.

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If you need a hand removing old fencing, just contact us and we will rally some volunteers to help!

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Click on the photo to the right for more information and design ideas for Wildlife-Friendly Fencing.  

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